When asked to imagine a place where we feel relaxed, have you ever wondered why we typically think of picnicking at the park, sitting on a sunny beach, camping under the stars or even a woodland walk?
The reason is simple: most of us feel happier and more at peace when surrounded by nature. This is where the word biophilia derives its meaning from; the desire to commune with the natural world.
Biophilic design is an approach that aims primarily at improving our connection to nature by bringing it into our homes and workplaces. By introducing it in our living areas we organically improve our connection to the natural environment. The results? Stress levels are reduced, creativity levels are boosted, and increased productivity, and our mental & physical well-being recuperates.
Why it’s an important design concept
This design concept has been around since the 70s but it's only been in recent years that it’s seen a popular resurgence as concerns about both our mental health and the environment have crept up to the top of the agenda. Many experts have encouraged the idea that this design trend should be seen more as a universal design ethos, where we take into consideration the various ways we can connect to nature using culture and make the most of the spaces that are important to our day-to-day routines.
In Biophilic Design, the focus lies mainly on enhancing well-being and exuding tranquillity. As urbanisation increases daily, stress rates have sky-rocketed — according to studies, 74% of UK adults have felt so stressed that their coping mechanisms have faltered — so it’s vital to transform our homes into a haven where the body and mind can completely switch off from the hustle and bustle of the day and indulge in the relaxing environment.
Incorporating it into the home
According to Shepley and Bulfinch and research from Dr. Stephen R. Keller, six principles must be considered and applied when working with Biophilic Design:
1. Environmental features
This principle consists of incorporating basic features like plants, images and objects that remind you of nature, earthy tones and allowing sunlight to come through. Including these in the concept, will instantly prompt healing and enhance the mood. Simple touches, make a big difference.
2. Natural shapes and forms
By introducing lines and forms that occur in nature, for example, arches, rock shelves, water paths and other naturally occurring shapes, the spirit of the space will provide richness of detail and offer comfort.
3. Restorative patterns and processes
According to Dr Stephen Kellert, human evolution has required involvement in an array of natural environments and we respond well to the five senses — sight, smell, touch, taste and hearing — so when done properly, Biophilic Design should offer the opportunity to encapsulate a sensorial variability.
4. Light and space
This straightforward principle focuses on the many qualities of light and space, and how the integration of abundant natural light can help merge the inside and outside using elements of warmth to create a stimulating effect that will ultimately spur movement and imagination.
5. Plants
No article talking about natural design will go without mentioning the word plants. A simple yet incredibly important element of Biophilic Design, this principle focuses on the idea of introducing greenery, imagery of plants or even an earthy/green colour scheme. This will create an instant relationship between the space and the natural elements you are incorporating.
6. The human-nature relationship:
The final principle needed to successfully incorporate Biophilic Design in your home involves recreating the relationship between nature and humans. By doing this, the space you’re working on will focus on different things like complexity, exploration, discovery and inspiration. If you keep this in mind, then you can create an area which will improve your concentration and comfort.
Biophilic Design shouldn’t be seen as an expensive option and instead should be considered as a creative exercise to instantly improve your well-being and positive feeling in your home. Ultimately, when redesigning a space in your home using this concept, simply consider these aspects for excellent results:
Use of natural materials, patterns and colour scheme
Sustainable materials
Improve the flow of natural and artificial lighting
Internal and external views of nature
Acoustic comfort
Improve the air quality and ventilation
Thermal comfort levels for the right temperature always
Organisation of space
With the rising importance of sustainable methods and the growing awareness of mental and physical well-being, Biophilic Design is, more than ever, a concept that should be implemented in homes, even if it starts in subtle ways – you’ll quickly reap the benefits of this design trend.
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